Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Treat Depression in Multiple Sclerosis
Acceptability and Feasibility of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Depression in Multiple Sclerosis
This study is testing if transcranial magnetic stimulation can help people with multiple sclerosis who are also dealing with depression feel better over a 5-6 week treatment period.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Utah Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Salt Lake City, Utah) |
| Trial ID | NCT06329414 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational pilot study aims to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for treating major depressive disorder in individuals with multiple sclerosis. Participants will undergo outpatient TMS treatment over a period of 5-6 weeks, during which they will complete validated questionnaires and exams to assess their symptoms. The study will also involve clinical brain imaging to compare changes before and after TMS treatment, providing insights into its effects on both depression and multiple sclerosis symptoms.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and major depressive disorder who are eligible for transcranial magnetic stimulation.
Not a fit: Patients experiencing an MS relapse, those with active suicidal ideation, or individuals with a history of seizure disorders or bipolar disorder may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a new treatment option for patients with depression who have multiple sclerosis, potentially improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While TMS has shown success in treating treatment-resistant depression in the general population, its application in patients with multiple sclerosis is less explored, making this study a novel investigation.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Established diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (any subtype) by 2017 McDonald criteria * Established diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) by DSM-5 criteria * Eligible for transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for depression Exclusion Criteria: * MS relapse and/or steroid use within 3 months * Active suicidal ideation * History of seizure/epilepsy, brain tumor, or stroke * History of bipolar disorder or psychosis * Currently or planning to become pregnant
Where this trial is running
Salt Lake City, Utah
- University of Utah Health — Salt Lake City, Utah, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Kathleen Shangraw, MD
- Email: kathleen.shangraw@hsc.utah.edu
- Phone: 8015832500
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.